Tejada, Hynes Begin New Four-Year Terms

Arlington County Board members Walter Tejada and Mary Hynes were sworn in to new four-year terms Tuesday.

The two Democratic incumbents won reelection in November.

Each stood with family when Clerk of Court Paul Ferguson administered the oath of office.

In their remarks, Hynes and Tejada talked about the importance of civic participation in maintaining and elevating Arlington's quality of life. They talked about the need for affordable housing and environmental sustainability.

"Working together, we can achieve greatness in our great Arlington community," said Tejada, who delivered his remarks in English and Spanish.

Tejada has lived in Arlington since 1992. He was first elected to the board in 2003.

"We are always, always, always better off together than we are alone," Hynes said.

Hynes has lived in Arlington for more than 30 years. She was first elected to the board in 2007.

Outgoing Chairman Chris Zimmerman announced Tuesday that Hynes will be named chairwoman at the board's Jan. 2 organizational meeting. Tejada will be named vice chairman.